Spirit of Freedom 2004
Eight veterans and five volunteers were honored with The Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award in 2004 for their efforts on behalf of Idaho's veterans. These Idahoans are part of a proud military tradition and have demonstrated remarkable bravery in battle, compassion for their fellow men and women, and a commitment here in Idaho to helping veterans and their families meet health care, social and recreational needs. Our country is a better place for their sacrifices, and I am honored to be able to thank them in this way.
Veterans:
JR Bagwell, Boise. JR performed meritorious and heroic service in the 8th Air Force during World War II. Although seriously wounded over Germany, he tended to others while their B-17 struggled to return to England. He is credited with gunnery innovations that made the B-17 more effective in combat. Upon his return to the States, he made a point to visit many of the families of airmen who lost their lives in the war, and was the inspiration for the first Boise VAMC combat vet group.
Joseph E. Broadhead, Rupert. Awarded posthumously. Joseph flew 2 ½ tours with the 8th Air Force in WWII for a total of 120 missions in a P-51. He destroyed 10 enemy aircraft, was awarded four Distinguished Flying Crosses, 14 Air Medals and gained “Ace” status in April of 1944. He served with a young officer named Chuck Yeager. He retired returned to Rupert where he served as the City Judge. He passed away on December 20, 1969 and is survived by his wife Beth, sons Mike (whom he named his plane after), Robert and daughter Jan.
Daniel T. Eismann, Eagle. Dan left the University of Idaho in 1967 to enlist in the Army and served two consecutive tours in Vietnam and was awarded two Purple Hearts and three medals for heroism. After he returned home, he completed college and law school, practicing in Owyhee and Canyon Counties. He later became a judge and now serves on the Idaho Supreme Court.
Joseph L. English, Priest River. Joseph served in Vietnam and was on active duty for nine years and in the reserves for almost 20 years. He was in infantry, the military police, communications and intelligence. He is currently the Quartermaster for VFW Post 2909, works with students, assists with funerals and is helping to form a Drum and Bugle Corps.
Robert D. Green, Meridian. Robert served 24 years in the US Navy on submarines. He is now retired from a second career with Morrison Knudsen. While serving as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Fleet Reserve Association, he maintained a liaison with all of the military recruiting stations in Boise. He is currently also volunteering at the Gowen Field Military Museum.
Marvin Herman, Pocatello. Marvin served in the Tank Corps in World War II. After landing in the first wave at Normandy, he followed General Patton to Berlin. During his service, he was awarded two Purple Hearts. He is a life member of the VFW, donating time and energy to his fellow veterans.
Lloyd McKenna, Lewiston. Lloyd served in WWII in the 507th Parachute Regiment, 17th Airborne Division, 504th Parachute Regiment, and in the 82nd Airborne Division in the European Theater for 14 months. He received many citations and awards including a Bronze Star for the Battle of the Bulge, three Battle Stars and three Bronze Stars for the European Theater and a Rhine River crossing by parachute. He also served in the Korean War.
Leo M. Scott, Boise. Leo joined the Army at 18 and became a paratrooper with the 101st in the Pacific Theater of World War II. He is an active volunteer both in and out of the Boise Idaho State Veterans home and has been interviewed by many students working on school projects.
Volunteers:
Ronald and Leola Broemeling, Clarkston, Washington. Ronald joined the US Navy after graduating from high school and spent four years on active duty and four in the reserves. He served two years in the Philippines on shore duty and 18 months aboard the USS Yancey cargo ship. Ron married Leola in 1985 and they had two sons. Leola and Ron began volunteering at the Idaho State Veterans Home in Lewiston in 2000. Ron helps with recycling and drives the DAV van to Walla Walla.
Liam Elms, Boise. Liam is a veteran who has volunteered many years both inside and outside the Boise Idaho State Veterans Home. He is active with the Alzheimer’s Unit and does many one-to-one programs with that group. He makes popcorn, conducts bingo games and takes veterans walking. His compassion and sense of humor make him a true example of "Vets Helping Vets".
Marlin Lewis, Boise. Martin joined the Air Force in 1950 and served around the world until his retirement in 1976. He retired from a second career with the Idaho Department of Corrections in 1993. He is active with the DAV and served as the State Commander from 1999-2000. He has logged 5,832 volunteer hours and driven 58,885 miles to bring 2,128 veterans to appointments. Through his church, he helps out at the ID Food Bank.
Leonard L. Rogers, Preston. Leonard is a Korean War Veteran who is active in the VFW and works as a County Service Officer for Franklin County. He has assisted at the Pocatello Idaho State Veterans Home since it opened and supports special programs and events. He has been instrumental to the success of the Idaho Veterans Olympics. He serves on the Homeless Stand Down Committee and has earned a reputation for loyalty, generosity and reliability in all he does.
